NDIS Frequently Asked Questions

What podiatry services does the NDIS fund?

If you’re an NDIS participant and your needs relate to a disability, the NDIS may fund podiatry. This might include foot assessments, treatment plans, care for things like skin and nail issues, diabetic foot care, or even the supply of orthotics or Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFOs). At A Step Ahead, we offer all these services and more, with a focus on making your life a little easier.

Source: https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/podiatry-and-foot-care-supports

How can I include podiatry supports in my NDIS plan?

To get podiatry funded in your plan, you’ll usually need to show that it’s essential for managing your disability. We help with that by providing professional assessments and reports. Your NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) will guide the rest of the process. And if you ever feel stuck, we’re always happy to talk it through with you.

Source: https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/podiatry-and-foot-care-supports/how-do-you-get-podiatry-and-foot-care-supports-your-plan

Are orthotics and specialised footwear covered?

They can be! If orthotics or special footwear are required to help manage a disability-related issue, the NDIS may cover them. We provide full assessments and prescription devices like custom orthoses and AFOs, along with the documentation needed to support funding requests.

Source: https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/assistive-technology

Can the NDIS fund regular foot care, like nail trimming?

Yes – if you’re unable to manage foot care yourself due to your disability, the NDIS can fund things like nail cutting, corn or callus removal, and general skin care. These treatments aren’t just about comfort, they can help prevent more serious issues down the track.

Source: https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/podiatry-and-foot-care-supports

How do I find an NDIS-registered podiatrist?

You’re already in the right place—we’re fully registered and experienced with NDIS processes. You can also search the official NDIS provider directory or speak with your support coordinator. Either way, it’s important to work with someone who understands the ins and outs of the system, and we do!

Source: https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/working-providers/find-registered-provider

How do claims work for NDIS-funded podiatry?

It depends on how your plan is managed:

  • Self-managed?  You pay us and claim the funds back.
  • Plan-managed?  We invoice your plan manager.
  • NDIA-managed?  We claim directly through the NDIS portal.

We’re happy to guide you through whichever process fits your plan.

Source: https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/managing-your-plan

Are home visits available through the NDIS?

Absolutely, if your plan allows for it and it’s difficult to attend appointments at the clinic, home visits can be funded. Our podiatrists regularly visit homes across the Greater Western Sydney area and the surrounding Penrith area. We bring the same high-quality care, just in the comfort of your home.

Source: https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu

How often can I see a podiatrist under the NDIS?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. It depends on what’s in your plan and what you need. We’re happy to support you with the clinical reasoning and documentation to adjust your supports if you need more regular care.

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What documents are needed to include podiatry in my plan?

We can help by providing assessments and reports showing why podiatry is important for your goals, mobility, or daily life. We’ll work closely with you, your coordinator, or your therapist to make sure the right evidence is submitted.

Source: https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/podiatry-and-foot-care-supports/how-do-you-get-podiatry-and-foot-care-supports-your-plan

Can children access podiatry through the NDIS?

Yes! We see lots of kids under both early intervention (ECEI) and long-term NDIS plans. Whether your child is navigating developmental delays, low tone, toe walking, or a condition like cerebral palsy, we’re here to help support them on their journey.

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Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist under the NDIS?

No, you don’t need a referral to access podiatry services under the NDIS. However, having documentation from your GP or allied health professionals can support the inclusion of podiatry services in your NDIS plan. If you’re unsure about the process, our team is here to assist you.

Source: https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/podiatry-and-foot-care-supports/how-do-you-get-podiatry-and-foot-care-supports-your-plan

Is podiatry funded under Core Supports or Capacity Building?

Podiatry services can be funded under different categories, depending on your individual NDIS plan. Routine foot care might be included under Core Supports, while assessments and therapies aimed at improving mobility and function are often funded under Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living. We can help clarify how podiatry fits into your specific plan.

Source: https://www.ndis.gov.au/media/6636/download?attachment=

Do you see self-managed or plan-managed participants?

Yes, we work with both self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants. If you’re NDIA-managed, please reach out to us directly so we can discuss how to best support your needs.

Source: https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/managing-your-plan

How do I book an appointment using my NDIS funding?

Booking an appointment is straightforward. Contact our clinic with your NDIS details, including your participant number and plan type, and let us know your goals. We’ll guide you through the booking and billing process to ensure everything aligns with your plan.

Source: https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan

What should I bring to my first NDIS podiatry appointment?

To make the most of your first visit, please bring:

  • Your NDIS plan, as this helps our doctors enormously (if you’re comfortable sharing)
  • Any recent medical or allied health reports. Again, this helps speed up the process tremendously for you and often helps us get to the part of the consult where we develop the plan for you quicker
  • Your current footwear or orthotics (if you have any)
  • A list of any foot-related challenges or goals you have

But remember, if you’d like to fast-track this, consider making a telephone or video consult with one of our support coordinators before your face-to-face consult with our doctors. For more information on this opportunity, see below!
This information helps us tailor our services to your specific needs.

Source: https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/podiatry-and-foot-care-supports/what-types-podiatry-and-foot-care-supports-do-we-fund

Can you help me prepare evidence to include podiatry in my NDIS plan?

Yes, we definitely can!

If you’re trying to have podiatry added to your NDIS plan, we can provide the clinical reports, assessments, and recommendations that explain why it’s reasonable and necessary. We’ve successfully helped other participants, and we’re happy to work alongside your GP, allied health team, or support coordinator to help you get the support you need.

Can you help me complete the intake forms before I attend my appointment?

Yes, we’d love to help!

We know that paperwork can feel a bit overwhelming, so we offer all NDIS participants the option to book a 15-minute phone or video call with one of our dedicated NDIS coordinators before your first appointment.

During that call, we can chat with you, or your carer or support coordinator, about what paperwork is needed, help you fill out any intake forms, and begin discussing your goals or support needs. This allows our doctors to review everything in advance and be fully prepared to support you from the moment you walk in.

That way, you can arrive feeling confident, relaxed, and ready—no stress, no pressure. Just great care, ready to go.